Rolling Stone AU/NZ publisher Vinyl Media has announced the iconic magazine is tuning up for one of its biggest nights yet, announcing the host and performers for the 2025 American Apparel Rolling Stone Australia Awards, returning to Sydney’s The Ivy on Wednesday, 9 April.
For the local music scene, and the brands backing it, the night is set to be a high-volume celebration of artistry, impact, and influence.
Icehouse (credit Glen Nicholls) / 3% / Becca Hatch (credit Maria Boyadgis)
A legacy act, rising stars and next-gen talent take the stage
Headlining the evening will be legendary Australian rockers Icehouse, marking 45 years since their debut album.
With five ARIA Awards and a 2006 ARIA Hall of Fame induction, the band remains a major draw for music fans and brands alike.
Joining them onstage is Western Sydney’s Becca Hatch, hot off opening for Coldplay and Mahalia. Also performing is First Nations supergroup 3%, comprising Corey ‘Nooky’ Webster, Dallas Woods, and Angus Field.
Their debut single, Our People, and subsequent album, Kill The Dead, have garnered critical acclaim, including two ARIA Awards and a National Indigenous Music Award for Song of the Year.
First Nations supergroup 3%
The voice of the night
Taking on the night’s hosting duties will be Nic Kelly, co-host of The Hit Network’s The Hot Hits and founder of youth media brand Project U.
With deep roots in music broadcasting and artist development, Kelly said, “It is an absolute dream to be hosting the Rolling Stone Australia Awards, celebrating the fact that despite all the challenges, the music we’re making and the incredible artists behind it are unstoppable.”
He went on to jokingly acknowledged the “challenge of wrangling the rowdiest room in Australian music,” highlighting the event’s vibrant energy.
Event host Nic Kelly
The business of music
The awards are set to be a significant moment for the industry, with a hotly contested field of award nominees. Amyl and the Sniffers, the current Rolling Stone AU/NZ cover stars, lead with four nominations.
The Readers’ Choice Award remains open for public voting, showcasing a diverse shortlist including Thelma Plum, G Flip, and Crowded House. The interactive element allows fans to directly engage with their favourite local acts, boosting visibility and engagement.
Supporting local talent
Neil Griffiths, editor-in-chief at Rolling Stone Australia, emphasised the awards’ role in supporting local artists.
“It’s no secret that it’s been a trying time for Australian artists. From a lack of representation on the end of year ARIA charts and even the Hottest 100 countdown, to the festival industry in crisis,” Griffiths said.
He continued: “With this year’s Rolling Stone Australia Awards, we want to platform and spotlight our local artists that deserve to be celebrated.”
Griffiths highlighted the global impact of Australian artists, from Dom Dolla to Missy Higgins, and the emergence of new talent like 3% and Mia Wray.
Neil Griffiths.
Brand alignment and sponsorship
The awards have secured key sponsorships, with American Apparel headlining for the first time, alongside returning sponsors Shure and JMC Academy.
David Hillen, director Asia Pacific at Gildan, spoke of the strategic partnership.
“The partnership between Rolling Stone and American Apparel unites two cultural powerhouses, each with a deep-rooted commitment to craftsmanship and creativity,” Hillen explained.
“This year, American Apparel returns to the Rolling Stone Australia Awards night with an exclusive activation, offering guests the unique opportunity to experience premium, ethically made designs.”
Vinyl Media is the publisher of Mediaweek